Having studied and performed West African drumming and dancing for almost two decades, I assumed my visual artwork would reflect some sort of African influence as well.

 

Initially, I painted several pieces related to the theme of dance, fluidity of motion, and intense colors. They were a reflection of my dance experience -- both as a participant and viewer. It wasn’t until I had a dream that I got the idea to carve. Not just any carving, but to carve African–inspired images onto doors, doors symbolic of my cultural past.